Program Overview

Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Merchandising and Design

St. Thomas University’s Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Merchandising and Design stands out as the only SACSCOC-accredited program of its kind in Florida. Serving as an educational destination, our program uniquely blends creativity, innovation, and business acumen, ensuring our students are well-prepared for the fast-paced world of fashion.

Program Overview

St. Thomas University offers a dynamic Bachelor of Arts program in Fashion Merchandising and Design, featuring two specialized tracks: Fashion Merchandising and Fashion Design. Our program is designed to blend the realms of creativity and innovation with the essential business and analytical skills needed in today’s fashion industry. Located in Miami, our students leverage the city’s dynamic fashion scene, showcased by prestigious events like Miami Fashion Week and Miami Paraiso Swim Week. These platforms provide our students with abundant opportunities to immerse themselves in the industry.

In the Fashion Merchandising track, students delve into the intricacies of buying, selling, and marketing fashion products. Courses span a range of topics, including Personal Styling, Textiles, Fashion Promotion, and more.

Meanwhile, in the Fashion Design track, students can develop various skills essential to the industry. This includes learning Computer Aid Design, Illustration, Construction, Pattern Making, and Sewing Skills. These skills are taught by industry professionals who guide students in creating innovative designs that are both informed by market research and influenced by historical art, design, and contemporary cultural elements.

Specializations

The Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Merchandising and Design degree program is designed to blend creativity and innovation with the essential business and analytical skills needed in today’s fashion industry. To further specialize their expertise, students can choose from focused tracks that align with key industries and career paths.

• Fashion Design
  • Students can develop various skills essential to the industry. This includes learning Computer Aid Design, Illustration, Construction, Pattern Making, and Sewing Skills. These skills are taught by industry professionals who guide students in creating innovative designs informed by market research and influenced by historical art, design, and contemporary cultural elements.
• Fashion Merchandising
  • In the Fashion Merchandising track, students delve into the intricacies of buying, selling, and marketing fashion products. Courses span a range of topics, including Personal Styling, Textiles, Fashion Promotion, and more.

Career Landscape

After graduating with a BA in Fashion Merchandising and Design from St. Thomas University, students enter a dynamic career landscape with diverse opportunities in the fashion industry. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue roles such as fashion buyer, technical designer, merchandiser, retail manager, product developer, fashion stylist, visual merchandiser, and more. The program’s focus on creativity, innovation, and business acumen prepares students to thrive in various sectors, including retail, e-commerce, marketing, and design.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of fashion designers is projected to grow 3 percent from 2020 to 2030, driven by the need for clothing and accessories in the retail sector. Additionally, the global apparel market is expected to reach $2.25 trillion by 2025, creating ample opportunities for graduates to contribute to this thriving industry.

With Miami’s status as a fashion hub and the program’s strong industry connections provide graduates with a competitive edge in securing positions in both local and international markets. The program’s alumni have gone on to work for renowned fashion brands, start their own businesses, and make significant contributions to the fashion industry.

In the Classroom

Our program offers a well-rounded education to prepare students for various roles in the fashion industry. It includes guest speakers and field trips to provide real-world insights, alongside specialized courses in fashion production systems, grading, and marker-making. Students engage in conceptual design courses that encourage innovative thinking to address future consumer needs. Additionally, they gain hands-on experience with fashion 3D platforms, mastering the latest technology. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the dynamic and competitive fashion world.

Fashion Merchandising and Design Fast Facts

• Experiential Learning
  • Students can access exclusive opportunities like Miami Paraiso Swim Week and Miami Fashion Week, along with internships at top locations, including Starboard Cruise Services.
• Hands-on Experience
  • Students will participate in a professional photoshoot as personal stylists, produce the Annual Fashion and Food Showcase, create a comprehensive digital portfolio of their projects at St. Thomas University, and design, construct, and style three complete outfits from their portfolio.
• Travel Opportunities
  • Opportunities to visit fashion capitals of the world (Paris, London, Milan, etc.) every other academic year.
• Join Fashion Society
  • The Fashion Society is a student-organized club dedicated to exploring and celebrating all aspects of fashion.